President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate release of funds for the payment of entitlements owed to retired Nigerian military personnel. This decision follows a recent protest by the retirees, who shut down the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja to demand the payment of their pensions, gratuities, and other benefits.
The ex-servicemen accused the government of neglecting their welfare, citing long delays in the disbursement of funds meant for their sustenance. Their grievances include unpaid Security Debarment Allowances (SDA) and discrepancies in pension payments.
In response to their demonstration, Tinubu assured the veterans of his administration’s commitment to addressing their concerns. He instructed the Ministry of Finance and other relevant agencies to prioritize the payment, emphasizing the need to honor the sacrifices of retired military personnel.
This directive reflects the government’s acknowledgment of the importance of the welfare of military retirees, who have dedicated their lives to national service. It also highlights the broader challenges of managing pensions and welfare in Nigeria’s public sector.
